IT MAY be a few weeks before Father Christmas visits, but his sleigh will be a common sight on the streets of Billericay in the coming days.

That is because Billericay Lions is making its 20th annual sleigh run around the streets of the town to raise money for local charities.

With reindeer in short supply in Billericay, the Lions’ version will be pulled by a Jeep Cherokee.

Yet, there will be no mistaking the colourful red sleigh behind, which will be blasting out Christmas classics while Santa and his helpers try to raise as much money as they can.

Robert Brett, spokesman for the Lions, said his group will be touring the streets regardless of the conditions.

He said: “It’s tough going out every night for two weeks running. We go out in the pouring rain or snow.

“We all get a great deal of enjoyment out of it and there’s always the prospect of a pint at the end of the evening to keep you going.”

Money raised will go to local charities such as St Luke’s Hospice, as well as families in need of financial support.

The first run will be on Wednesday, December 12, and will take in Mountnessing Road and Bluebell Wood.

For information on subsequent routesm go to the Lion’s website at www.billericaylions. com